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© 2026 - Octane Automotive BV
© 2026 - Octane Automotive BV
The Porsche 997 was the generation that restored the 911's reputation. Introduced in 2004 as the successor to the controversial 996, it brought back the round headlamps, modernised the interior and chassis substantially, and ultimately produced what many 911 enthusiasts consider the most balanced modern 911 ever made. The 997 also encompasses some of the most highly regarded 911 specials of the modern era: the GT3 RS 4.0, the GT2 RS, and the Turbo S with Mezger engine. A 997 is not sold to just any buyer; it is passed on to someone who recognises the difference between a 997.1 and a 997.2 and who values the Mezger status.
The Porsche 997 was unveiled in 2004 as the successor to the 996. Visually it was received by many as a reconciliation between classic 911 proportions and modern execution: the round headlamps were back, the interior was substantially upgraded, and the body received a more refined front and rear. The Carrera produced 325 hp from a 3.6-litre engine, the Carrera S 355 hp from a new 3.8-litre. The Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S followed in 2005 with permanent four-wheel drive. The 997.1 carries a specific point of attention: bore scoring on the M96/M97 engines, particularly in the 3.8-litre S models. A 997.1 with proven cylinder wall inspection and favourable readings is far more attractive to buyers.
In 2009 the 997 underwent a thorough engine update. The new MA1 engine (direct fuel injection) replaced the M96/M97 in the Carrera, Carrera S, and Carrera 4 models. The 3.6-litre now produced 345 hp, the 3.8-litre 385 hp, both with improved efficiency and the first introduction of Porsche's PDK dual-clutch gearbox. The PDK was technically revolutionary, but for collectors the manual six-speed remains the most sought-after specification. With the DFI engines the bore-scoring concerns of the 997.1 were largely addressed, making the 997.2 more attractive for long-term ownership.
The 997 GT3 (2006-2009, 997.1) produced 415 hp from its 3.6-litre Mezger, followed by the 997.2 GT3 (2009-2011) with 435 hp from a new 3.8-litre Mezger. The GT3 RS (997.1 in 3.6 litre, 997.2 in 3.8 litre) brought more extensive aerodynamics, weight saving, and shorter gearing. The GT3 RS 4.0 (2011-2012, only 600 built) was the definitive specification: 500 hp from a 4.0-litre Mezger, with the iconic factory-installed graphic stripe and the most aggressive aerodynamics of the generation. For collectors the GT3 RS 4.0 is one of the most valuable modern 911s, with prices far above the original list.
The 997 Turbo (2006-2009, 480 hp) and Turbo S (2010-2012, 530 hp) used the twin-turbo Mezger engine with permanent four-wheel drive. The Turbo S received PDK as standard from 2010. The 997 GT2 (2007-2010) was the rear-wheel-drive hardcore twin-turbo with 530 hp; the GT2 RS (2010-2011, only 500 built) brought 620 hp and is technically one of the most extreme 911s ever built. For collectors a GT2 RS in original colour (often White, Black, or Red with factory stripe) is among the most expensive 997s. The Sport Classic (2010, 250 built) and the Speedster (2011, 356 built) are limited factory specials that operate in a separate collector class.
The 997 is now widely seen as the sweet spot of modern 911 ownership. Regular Carrera models (particularly 997.2 with DFI) offer modern usability and steadily rising values. The Mezger models (Turbo, GT3, GT2) sit in a separate price tier, with the GT3 RS 4.0 and GT2 RS in true collector territory. For sellers this means a well-documented 997 with proven service history and original specification (particularly factory options or a PTS colour) attracts strong international interest. The buyer you want is an enthusiast who knows the Mezger culture and understands the transition from M96/M97 to DFI.
997.1 (2004-2008) uses M96/M97-derived engines, with known bore-scoring issues on S models. 997.2 (2009-2012) introduced the new MA1 direct-injection engine, which addressed most reliability concerns. For collector Carreras the 997.2 typically commands higher prices.
The 997 GT3, GT3 RS, GT2, and Turbo use the Mezger engine, not the M96/M97. This engine does not have the bore-scoring issues and is known for exceptional durability. A 997 Turbo or GT3 with proven Mezger service history is collector class.
Porsche Classic supplies a Certificate of Authenticity on request based on the VIN. For the 997 GT3 RS 4.0, GT2 RS, Sport Classic, Speedster, and rare Turbo specifications this document is decisive for collectors.
For 997 collectors, factory PTS (Paint to Sample) colours, original wheels (Sport Design, RS Spyder, GT3 wheels), Alcantara packs, and factory carbon packs strongly drive price. Document all factory options with original order notes.
Service at a Porsche dealer or recognised 911 specialist is essential for the 997. For M96/M97 models: proven bore-scoping check and documented cylinder wall condition. For Mezger models: timing chain, head gasket, and cooling system service work.
From the 997.2, PDK (Doppelkupplungsgetriebe) became available. For collectors the manual version is strongly preferred, particularly on the GT3, GT2, and rare specifications. PDK examples remain attractive but typically sit ten to twenty percent below comparable manual cars.
Note: These factors may influence buyer interest. Value depends on many factors.
For the 997 GT3 RS 4.0, GT2 RS, Sport Classic, Speedster, and rare Turbo S specifications this document is decisive. Apply via a Porsche dealer or Porsche Classic in Stuttgart, lead time a few weeks.
Borescope inspection of cylinder walls by Porsche or a recognised specialist. Photos and readings of bore-scoring status. A 997.1 with favourable inspection results and proven healthy cylinder walls is worth far more to buyers.
Timing chains, head gaskets, cooling system, oil pressure pump, plug coils, clutch status (manual) or PDK service. Mezger service at Porsche or a 911 specialist is essential for top valuation.
Photos of the VIN plate and engine block number side by side. For the GT3 RS 4.0, GT2 RS, Sport Classic, and Speedster, a Porsche Classic confirmation of matching numbers and factory specification is mandatory for top valuation.
Paint colour with factory code, Paint-to-Sample confirmation if applicable, factory carbon packs, Alcantara interior, sports seats or standard seats, factory wheels (Sport Design, RS Spyder, GT3 wheels). Original order configuration strongly drives price.
Manual or PDK. For manual: clutch wear and any renewal documentation. For PDK: software update status and any clutch renewal. For the GT3 and GT2: confirmation of gearbox condition is decisive.
Many 997s have received GT3-look kits, aftermarket exhausts, or engine tuning. Document all modifications; keep original parts available where possible. For collector-oriented sales, original specification is strongly preferred.
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